On the weekend of Sept. 18-19 the LBJ National Park in Johnson City , Texas (20 miles east of Fredericksburg and about 40 miles west of Austin ) is hosting its first ever major Vietnam War event. The connection between LBJ and the war is obvious and the park wants to make interpretation of the Vietnam War a major theme. If this first event goes well, it may become an annual thing, getting bigger and better each time. The Birddog Association has already signed on to a fly-in with their Vietnam War observation aircraft. A few of you may recall their last fly-in or their participation at the Hamburger Hill reenactment we put on near Fredericksburg in 2006. LBJ National Park will provide potable water and lunch to all participants. It is also making the effort to bring in at least one, perhaps three Huey helicopters. The goal is to have a very robust living history display and to stage a battle reenactment with U.S. and enemy forces utilizing aircraft, helicopters and vehicles. The exact scenario will depend on the assets that sign on, but will probably last about 20 minutes or so. We will be responsible for providing our own ammunition. The Texas Military Forces Museum is committing to bring at least one of its M113 APCs to the event. It will also bring at least one GP Medium to use as a barracks. LBJ may have a second tent to make available as well. Obviously any period correct tentage you want to bring is welcome. All impressions and vehicles related to the Vietnam War are welcome. This includes U.S. and allied forces as well as NVA and VC, in addition to those who wish to interpret the First Indo-China War. We want as many troops as possible. There is ample room for living history encampments, parking and a battlefield. Here is our chance to stage a large public Vietnam War event centered on our abilities as living historians, rather than be part of a larger time line exhibit or an air show. Fun though those events are, this is our opportunity to create something unique and meaningful; an opportunity to honor our Vietnam War veterans and educate the American public on their service and sacrifice. Feel free to forward this email to anyone you think is interested. The standard rules of safety, demeanor and authenticity will apply. A formal registration process will probably be set up in the near future, but for now if you are interested let me know. Jeff H. Director Texas Military Forces Museum http://www.lonestar-mvpa.org Copyright 1997-2007   All Rights Reserved Webmaster Comments